Lagatar24 Desk
Patna: Addressing the Constitution Protection Conference in Patna, Congress leader and Lok Sabha MP Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need for a comprehensive caste census to understand the true socio-economic condition of the country. Taking a dig at the BJP, he declared, “We will conduct a caste census in the face of Prime Minister Modi. This won’t be like the flawed caste census conducted in Bihar. It will form the foundation of policy-making, and Congress will push for its passage in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.”
Criticism of BJP and RSS
Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP of dismantling representative power from backward communities and Dalits. “When they realized that backward communities and Dalits were gaining representation, they allowed you symbolic representation but snatched away real power,” he said. He further alleged that the government has handed over power to corporates like Ambani and Adani and the RSS, claiming they have infiltrated every government and institutional system.
Targeting Mohan Bhagwat
The Congress leader also took a sharp jab at RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, accusing him of undermining the Constitution. “The Constitution is not just a book; it encapsulates centuries of thought and the voices of visionaries like Buddha, Narayana Guru, Basavanna, Phule, Gandhi, and Ambedkar,” Rahul said. He highlighted that the Constitution reflects the struggles and pains of Dalits, backward classes, and Adivasis, working to mitigate the injustices faced by these communities.
Breaking the 50% Reservation Barrier
Rahul Gandhi also announced Congress’s intention to break the 50% reservation cap to ensure fair representation for marginalized groups. “Caste census will form the backbone of our policies, and we are committed to shattering the barriers to equitable representation,” he asserted.
A Call for Justice
The Congress leader framed the caste census as a step toward justice and equity, highlighting the need for policies rooted in data and reality. His speech underlined Congress’s approach to challenging the BJP’s governance model and offering a contrasting vision focused on social justice and inclusive growth.